Shrewsbury – Michele Franchi, 65, a lifelong resident of Shrewsbury, passed away unexpectedly in her sleep Sept. 30, 2019, joining in heaven her parents Edward and Christine, brother Robert, and sister Diane, who passed away in August.
Michele was born in Worcester, one of four children of Edward and Christine (Lapriore) Franchi. Raised in Shrewsbury, Michele graduated from Shrewsbury High School where she was a member of the cheerleading squad. She then attended Quinsigamond Community College. Michele loved children and caring for them and worked as a preschool teacher and aide for many day care and preschool companies before retiring.
Michele is survived by her son Tyler DeLeon of Boston who gave her so much joy and was so proud of; her best friend and sister, Christine “Tina” Franchi of Shrewsbury; two nieces, Karen Franchi-Girardi and Kimberly Pizzarella, a nephew Robert Franchi, Jr.; and many other extended family members and friends.
Michele was a member of St Anne’s Church. She loved to dance, children and attend many of the activities in Shrewsbury. Michele cherished her son and was so proud of his accomplishments and successes in life and found her greatest joy with him. Michele was a constant fan at all of Tyler’s sports and other activities. Michele was a special person who could draw people to her quiet and calming personality. She had a great sense of humor and huge heart.
Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Thursday, Oct. 3 from 4-7 p.m. in the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St., Worcester. Her funeral will be held Friday, Oct. 4 from the funeral home with a procession to St Anne’s Church, 130 Boston Turnpike Rd, Shrewsbury, where her funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Michele’s name can be made to the Susan G. Komen for a cure foundation, New England Donation Processing Center, 76 Batterson Park Road, Farmington, CT 06032. Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, Worcester is assisting with the arrangements.
